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Christopher O'Landreneau wrote:

Hi, guys —

Our granddaughter, who is seven years old and is baptized in the Methodist church, attends Mass with us at times. She asked why she cannot receive the Eucharist.

  • What is the best way to explain to a seven year old why they cannot receive Communion?

Christopher
  { How do I explain to my 7-year-old Methodist granddaughter why they can't receive Communion? }

Mike replied:

Hi, Chris —

Thanks for the question!

I would simply say, she cannot receive the Eucharist because what she (or the faith of her parents) believes about the Christian faith is not the same as what Catholic Christians believe about the Christian faith.

Receiving the Eucharist is a sign of a communion among those who receive the Eucharist, (a sign of a common belief, among those who receive the Eucharist).

Since what Catholics believe about Jesus, His Teachings, and the Church, is different then what Methods believe, we can't have a Common Union.

Mike

Christopher replied:

Thanks Mike,

Good clarification.

YBIC, Your Blessings in Christ,

Chris

Mary Ann replied:

Christopher —

Say this to a seven year old:

"The Bible says that we should not receive unless we know what we are receiving [discern the Body]. You have not yet been taught how to know what we are receiving. If you ever join our Church, you will.

In your family's church, you will soon be prepared to understand the belief of your church about the Body of Christ, and to receive what they believe is communion.

One day, people will all believe the same thing, and be able to share in and be together the Body of Christ."

Mary Ann

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